Apparatus for Covering a Connection Between Railcars

ABSTRACT

An apparatus comprises an interior panel being configured to at least cover a portion of a side of a gangway between at least a first passenger car and a second passenger car. Reel mechanisms are in engagement with the interior panel. The reel mechanisms are operable to curl portions of sides of the interior panel to accommodate a change in distance between the passenger cars. Curling devices are in engagement with the reel mechanisms and are configured to urge the reel mechanisms to curl sides of the interior panel. At least one connection rod mechanism is in engagement with the reel mechanisms and is configured to be operable to support a middle portion of the interior panel. Connection fixing devices are configured to join the reel mechanisms to the passenger cars.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX

Not applicable.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

One or more embodiments of the invention generally relate to railcars. More particularly, one or more embodiments of the invention relate to a side panel for connecting two railcars.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following background information may present examples of specific aspects of the prior art (e.g., without limitation, approaches, facts, or common wisdom) that, while expected to be helpful to further educate the reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to be construed as limiting the present invention, or any embodiments thereof, to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon. Passenger trains and other types of trains often comprise multiple railcars. It is believed that passengers and/or train crew members may sometimes need or desire to move from one railcar to another. For example, without limitation, a passenger may wish to move to a different railcar for better seating or a crew member may need to move between railcars to collect tickets or to perform maintenance. Passenger trains typically comprise vestibules between the railcars through which passengers and crew members may walk from one railcar to another. This vestibule is herein referred to as a gangway.

The following is an example of a specific aspect in the prior art that, while expected to be helpful to further educate the reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to be construed as limiting the present invention, or any embodiments thereof, to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon. By way of educational background, an aspect of the prior art generally useful to be aware of is that some prior art gangways comprise panels with multiple pieces. Other prior art gangways comprise side panels that rely upon a series of telescopic springs, guide sleeves and wire ropes to control the movement of the panels. Due to the common unreliability of springs and wire ropes and the omnipresent danger of breakage, one may expect that these springs and wire ropes may weaken over time and may need constant adjustment or replacement. Moreover, springs and wire ropes are often complicated to set up and maintain. Another prior art gangway comprises a flexible, one-piece side panel, which contacts with a railcar body via a connection mechanism that is simpler than springs and wire ropes. The side panel is made of deformable material, which bends towards the middle of the gangway around a vertical axis, which may cause the clear width of the gangway to be reduced and thus reduce the effective passenger area within the gangway. This may be inconvenient for passengers and train crewmembers walking through the gangway. This may also cause concern for passenger safety or an uneasy feeling in some passengers when in the gangway. Furthermore, the deflection of the side panel may change the aesthetics of the railcar interior.

In view of the foregoing, it is clear that these traditional techniques are not perfect and leave room for more optimal approaches.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary one-piece side panel installed between two railcars, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 2 through 4 illustrate an exemplary side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view of the backside of the side panel. FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic side view of the left side of the side panel, and

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the side panel as indicated by section A-A in FIG. 2;

FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an exemplary connection between a reel and a connection rod mechanism for a one piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic front view of the connection, and FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic top view of the connection;

FIG. 7 is a partial cross sectional view of an internal panel of a one-piece side panel for connecting railcars, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 8 through 10 illustrate the movement of a one-piece side panel for connecting railcars in various different instances, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic top view of the panel being compressed as a side of a vehicle is compressed, for example, without limitation, when negotiating a curve. FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic top view of the panel being extended as a side of the vehicle is extended, for example, without limitation, when negotiating a curve. FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic top view of side panels on opposite sides of a gangway while the vehicle is negotiating an S-curve, and FIG. 11 is a side view of the backside of a s side panel while the vehicle is negotiating a vertical curve;

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate an exemplary lower mounting device for a one-piece side panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic front View of lower mounting device, and FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic side view of lower mounting device;

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic front view of an exemplary reel 6 for a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate an exemplary connection rod mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic top view;

FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate an exemplary roller device for a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic top view;

FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate an exemplary upper bracket of a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic top view; and

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an exemplary upper mounting device 19 of a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic top view.

Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention are best understood by reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein.

Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive.

It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, compounds, materials, manufacturing techniques, uses, and applications, described herein, as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. Similarly, for another example, a reference to “a step” or “a means” is a reference to one or more steps or means and may include sub-steps and subservient means. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Preferred methods, techniques, devices, and materials are described, although any methods, techniques, devices, or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the present invention. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art, and which may be used instead of or in addition to features already described herein.

Although Claims have been formulated in this application to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalization thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any Claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention.

Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. The Applicants hereby give notice that new Claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom.

References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” “various embodiments,” etc., may indicate that the embodiment(s) of the invention so described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in one embodiment,” or “in an exemplary embodiment,” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although they may.

As is well known to those skilled in the art many careful considerations and compromises typically must be made when designing for the optimal manufacture of a commercial implementation any system, and in particular, the embodiments of the present invention. A commercial implementation in accordance with the spirit and teachings of the present invention may configured according to the needs of the particular application, whereby any aspect(s), feature(s), function(s), result(s), component(s), approach(es), or step(s) of the teachings related to any described embodiment of the present invention may be suitably omitted, included, adapted, mixed and matched, or improved and/or optimized by those skilled in the art, using their average skills and known techniques, to achieve the desired implementation that addresses the needs of the particular application.

It is to be understood that any exact measurements/dimensions or particular construction materials indicated herein are solely provided as examples of suitable configurations and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Depending on the needs of the particular application, those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of the following teachings, a multiplicity of suitable alternative implementation details.

Some embodiments of the present invention relate to auxiliary equipment between railcars. One embodiment provides a one-piece side panel of flexible bellow, which is mounted inside a gangway between two railcars. In some embodiments, the one-piece side panel comprises an internal panel, a reel, a curling device, a connection rod mechanism and a fixing device. For current technology, side panels often bend towards the middle of the gangway, which may reduce the width of the gangway. In some embodiments of the present invention, the one-piece side panel may limit internal panel bending towards the middle of the gangway, which may provide a more comfortable environment for passengers and train crew members.

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary one-piece side panel 4 installed between two railcars, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, side panel 4 may be used to connect two or more railcars in a train. Side panel 4 is placed between a railcar body 1 and a railcar body 2 at a gangway 3, where passengers and crew members may walk through from one railcar to another. One-piece side panel 4 is applied at both sides of gangway 3 to generally prevent passengers or crew members from being hurt or a bellow between the railcars from being damaged. In addition, an interior panel of side panel 4 may be designed to provide a comfortable and attractive environment for passengers. One-piece side panel 4 typically limits bending of this interior panel towards the middle of gangway 3 to generally prevent the reduction of the clear width of gangway 3.

FIGS. 2 through 4 illustrate an exemplary side panel 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view of the backside of side panel 4. FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic side view of the left side of side panel 4, and FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of side panel 4 as indicated by section A-A in FIG. 2. In the present embodiment, side panel 4 is a one-piece panel of flexible bellow comprising an internal panel 5, which has a rigid middle area and flexible edge areas near the sides of the railcar. The side of internal panel 5 facing towards the inside of the vehicle is the surface that is typically accessible by passengers. One-piece side panel 4 is typically made of a preformed material, and preformed curved internal panel 5 typically has the tendency to curve. It is contemplated that the panels in some alternate embodiments may be made of a multiplicity of suitable materials such as, but not limited to, various different metals or plastics. In the present embodiment, side panel 4 also comprises two reels 6, which extend nearly the entire height of internal panel 5 vertically near the sides of the railcar body, are typically used for holding internal panel 5. Referring to FIG. 4, internal panel 5 is curved onto reels 6. Connection rod mechanisms 7 are located on reels 6 and generally support the middle area of internal panel 5. Connection rod mechanisms 7 are fixed on reels 6 by connection rod brackets 8. Torsion springs 9 are applied between connection rod mechanisms 7 and reels 6, providing a curling force for reels 6. In order to limit interference between connection rod 7 and reel 6 during stretching and vertical movements of the panel during operation of the vehicle, part of reel 6 near connection rod 7 may be cut off, as illustrated by way of example in FIG. 16.

In the present embodiment, internal panel 5 is made of a resilient and flexible material such as, but not limited to, fiber glass, other composite materials, rubber, plastic, various metals, etc. Internal panel 5 is pre-deformed to generally ensure that internal panel 5 remains curled on reel 6 as far as possible. When internal panel 5 is curled, the area on reel 6 is typically thinner than the area in the center to generally ensure that internal panel 5 may be curled and deformed. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, a guide rail 14 is bonded or screwed onto internal panel 5. Both ends of guide rail 14 are machined to become thinner, to generally ensure that guide rail 14 does not interfere with reels 6 when reel 6 is rotating on its axis and when the cars are at different levels under differing track conditions and/or if there are changes in car suspension levels. In some embodiments the guide rail may be implemented without machined ends.

In the present embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, upper brackets 10 are placed near the top of one-piece side panel 4, and lower brackets 11 are placed near the bottom of side panel 4. Upper brackets 10 and lower brackets 11 at both sides of side panel 4 may be mounted onto the bodies of the railcars. One-piece side panel 4 is articulated together via two mounting devices 19 and 20 at the top and bottom of each reel 6, respectively, to generally enable side panel to achieve various different movement positions when panel 4 is extended, compressed, negotiating an S-curve, etc. Upper mounting device 19 is fixed on top of reel 6 by a screw 21 and connects with an upper bracket 10 via a mounting pin 25. A roller device 33 is provided at the articulation of connection rod mechanism 7 and guide rail 14 to help reinforce and support the middle of internal panel 5. In order to generally enable side panel 4 to be mounted easily, space is provided for elastic deformation of internal panel 5 in the form of a gap between side panel 4 and the railcars. It is contemplated that a multiplicity of mounting means may be used to connect the panel to railcars in some alternate embodiments such as, but not limited to, various different types of brackets, hinges, ball and socket joints, bolts, welding, etc. In the present embodiment, a masking assembly 32 may be fixed on the railcar to cover the gap for aesthetics. Masking assembly may be made of rubber, brush, combination of rubber and brush, or any other suitable material. Rubber skirts 34 are also provided at the top and bottom of internal panel 5. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of and in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, that some alternate embodiments may be implemented without masking assemblies or skirts or may comprise masking assemblies and skirts in a multiplicity of suitable designs including, without limitation, rounded caps rather than skirts and various different materials such as, but not limited to, plastics, metals, composite materials, etc.

Referring to FIG. 4, during typical operation of the present embodiment between two railcars, side panel 4 may be extended, and internal panel 5 and reel 6 may twist and extend in directions indicated by arrows 18 a and 18 b. For example, without limitation, if side panel 4 is compressed while in operation, internal panel 5 and reels 6 may twist and compress along arrows 18 a and 18 b, and if side panel 4 is stretched while in operation, internal panel 5 and reels 6 may twist and extend along arrows 18 a and 18 b. During this twisting and compressing or extending, internal panel 5 typically does not flex or bend toward the center of the gangway; internal panel 5 generally remains in a natural position. Furthermore, springs and wire ropes are eliminated from the present embodiment, which may enable side panel 4 to be easier set up and more reliable than currently available railcar connection means.

FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an exemplary connection between a reel 6 and a connection rod mechanism 7 for a one piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic front view of the connection, and FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic top view of the connection. In the present embodiment, reels are provided at both sides of an internal panel. The reels generally enable the sides of the internal panel to be fixed and inner portion of the internal to be able to curl. The reels may also assist and provide support to the internal panel when passenger a leans on the internal panel. The two reels are typically placed vertically with respect to the floor of the gangway. The lengths of the reels are typically shorter than or similar to the length of the internal panel. Referring to FIG. 6, reel 6 is typically an incomplete circular or sub-circular shape. A connection rod bracket 8 is connected to connection rod mechanism 7 by an articulated torsion spring shaft 26. Referring to FIG. 5, a sliding copper sleeve 28 may be applied between torsion spring shaft 26 and a connection rod end bracket 27. In some embodiments a bearing, a sleeve of a different material or no bearing device may be placed between the torsion spring shaft and the connection rod end bracket.

In the present embodiment, torsion spring shaft 26 is fixed to connection rod bracket 8 by a set screw 29. Torsion spring shaft 26 is typically long enough to extend out from both ends of connection rod bracket 27, where torsion springs 9 may be placed. Torsion springs 9 also mount to reel 6 and act as a curling device for reel 6 to assist reel 6 in curling to provide flexibility to the internal panel. Torsion springs 9 are located symmetrically on each sides of connection rod bracket 8 on torsion spring shaft 26. In some embodiments it is contemplated that various different types of curling devices may be implemented such as, but not limited to, a single torsion spring, more than two torsion springs, tension and compression springs, cantilever springs, etc. In the present embodiment, torsion springs 9 take connection rod mechanism 7 and reel 6 or connection rod bracket 27 as the stress point of torsion to provide a reel curling force, and the torque withstood by reel 6 realizes the curling function of the internal panel and connects the internal panel and reel 6 at two sides similar to a retractable roller blind of two spools with preshrinking force to absorb movement deformation between two railcars during vehicle operation. Typically the torsion force of torsion springs 9 is applied separately on connection rod mechanism 7 and reel 6. For example, without limitation, the torsion of the two ends of torsion spring shaft 26 is typically applied to reel 6, and the middle torsion is typically applied to connection rod mechanism 7.

Referring to FIG. 6, a block 30 is provided between reel 6 and torsion spring 9. A sleeve 26 b is located between torsion spring 9 and torsion spring shaft 26 to aid in decreasing abrasion damage. In some embodiments different types of bearings or no bearing device may be placed between the torsion spring and the torsion spring shaft. In the present embodiment, a torsion spring shaft 26 a is made of steel pipe, and the two ends are separately fixed to an end cover 31, illustrated by way of example in FIG. 5. The torsion spring shaft 26 a allows the torsion spring to move or flex about the torsion spring shaft without binding. End covers 31 may be pleasing in appearance and help protect torsion springs 9. It is contemplated that some embodiments may be implemented without end covers or with various different types of end covers such as, but not limited to, threaded caps or slip-on caps. Furthermore, the torsion spring shaft in some embodiments may be made of a multiplicity of suitable materials such as, but not limited to, various different metals, various different plastics, composite materials, etc. In the present embodiment, when the vehicle is operating, the mounting points of reel 6 may move with the movement of the railcar. Reel 6 typically rotates around the vertical axle under actions of torsion springs 9 and the internal panel so as to adapt the internal panel, torsion springs 9 and reel 6 to a relatively balanced position in order to satisfy various needs of vehicle operation. Some non-limiting examples of positions which may be taken by these various components during vehicle operation are shown by way of example in FIGS. 8 through 11.

FIG. 7 is a partial cross sectional view of an internal panel of a one-piece side panel for connecting railcars, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The internal panel may be fixed on the diameter of two reels at both sides by fixing units. In the present embodiment, the internal panel is fixed to the reels by a trimming strip 12 and a screw 13 or multiple screws on each side of the internal panel. In many embodiments the trimming strip typically runs the entire length of the reel or the length of side of the internal panel. The thickness of the portions of the internal panel fixed to the reels is thinner than the middle portion to generally enable the panel to curve and deform around the reels. The thickness of the internal panel at the middle area is thicker to aid in reinforcing the panel. It is contemplated that the thickness of the inner panel in some alternate embodiments may vary. For example, without limitation, in some embodiments the panel may be uniform in thickness. In the present embodiment, there is a convex plate 16 at the end of the internal panel and a convex portion 15 on trimming strip 12. When trimming strip 12 is mounted, convex portion 15 of trimming strip 12 and convex plate 16 of the internal panel are buckled together, to reinforce strength and rigidity. A corner 17 is provided at the connection area between the internal panel and the reel. Corner 17 is curved into a transitional circle to generally prevent the area at corner 17 from being damaged because of stress fatigue. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of and in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, that a multiplicity of suitable attachment means and configurations may be used to attach the internal panel to the reels in some alternate embodiments. For example, without limitation, some embodiments may have corners with right angles and other embodiments may use bolts, welding, adhesives, etc. to attach the internal panel.

FIGS. 8 through 10 illustrate the movement of a one-piece side panel for connecting railcars in various different instances, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic top view of the panel being compressed as a side of a vehicle is compressed, for example, without limitation, when negotiating a curve. FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic top view of the panel being extended as a side of the vehicle is extended, for example, without limitation, when negotiating a curve. FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic top view of side panels 100 on opposite sides of a gangway 3 while the vehicle is negotiating an S-curve, and FIG. 11 is a side view of the backside of a side panel while the vehicle is negotiating a vertical curve. In the present embodiment, the side panel, which has a structure in accordance with the foregoing description, is subjected to various movement positions when the vehicle is in operation including, without limitation, lateral swing, vertical swing (roll), upward and downward vertical movement, pitch movement, etc. Because the panels are flexible, the panels are typically able to adapt to these movements. Referring to FIG. 8, during this movement, side panel may be compressed. When in compression, an internal panel 5 and reels 6 twist in the direction indicated by arrows 18 c and 18 d. This twisting typically causes internal panel 5 to curl around reels 6 and to shorten. Referring to FIG. 9, during this movement, the side panel may also be is extended. When extended, internal panel 5 and reels 6 twist in the direction indicated by arrows 18 e and 18 f to extend internal panel 5. Referring to FIG. 10, when the vehicle is negotiating an S-curve with lateral deviation, internal panels of side panels 100 twist to relative position. For example, without limitation, when the connected railcars take a pitch movement, the internal panel on the wider side of gangway 3 is extended, and the internal panel on the other side compresses to fit the area between the railcars. When the railcars take a roll movement, the internal panels adjust to fit the area between the two railcars in a similar manner. The internal panels are flexible to adapt to this movement yet strong enough to support passengers who may lean on the internal panels. Referring to FIG. 11, when the railcars take a vertical movement, the internal panel extends, contracts, and/or twists about a guide rail 14 in order to adapt to this movement. Connection rod mechanisms 7 may also expand or contract and slide along or rotate with respect to guide rail 14. In operation, protrusion into the gangway by internal panel 5 can be restricted during stretching, compressing, pitching, rolling, vertical movement or great transverse movement. However, the twist and deformation of internal panel 5 are not restricted during stretching, compressing, pitching, rolling, vertical movement or great transverse movement. This typically enables internal panel 5 to adapt to the movements of the vehicle with little interference to the width of the gangway.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate an exemplary lower mounting device 20 for a one-piece side panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic front View of lower mounting device 20, and FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic side view of lower mounting device 20. In the present embodiment, mounting devices are provided at the top and bottom of each reel. These mounting devices connect the reels to a railcar. For example, without limitation, upper and lower brackets on two railcars may correspond to four mounting devices at the top and bottom of each reel. In the present embodiment, mounting device 20 is located on the bottom of a reel to connect the reel to a railcar. Mounting device 20 comprises a mounting hole 20 a into which a copper sleeve 22 is pre-assembled. Copper sleeve 22 is held in place in lower mounting device 20 by a set screw 23 and typically aids in facilitating rotation of the reel and may relieve friction. It is contemplated that the copper sleeve in some embodiments may be held in place my various different means such as, but not limited to, a threaded connection, cotter pins, bolts, etc. Moreover, some embodiments may comprise sleeves made of different materials including, without limitation, various different metals or plastics.

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate an exemplary lower bracket 11, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic rearview, and FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic top view. Lower bracket 11 may be mounted to a railcar to act as a connection device for a side panel. When the one-piece side panel is mounted to lower bracket 11, a hole of a copper sleeve 22 is directly placed onto a mounting pin 24 on lower bracket 11 so the reel may rotate on mounting pin 24. Lower bracket 11 comprises a bracket body 11 a, mounting pin 24, a bearing 11 d, a washer 11 e, a supporting pin 11 b and a split pin 11 c. A groove 11 g is designed into bracket body 11 a to reduce weight, and a reinforcement rib 11 h is used to increase rigidity. A bevel angle 11 f at the mounting end of lower bracket 11 supports mounting pin 24 and enables mounting pin 24 to be placed in an inclined position so that lower bracket 11 and mounting pin 24 may be assembled conveniently. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of and in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, that a multiplicity of suitable means may be used to mount the side panel to a railcar such as, but not limited to, mounting devices or brackets with multiple position holes, different types of brackets, articulated joints, hinges, bolts, etc.

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic front view of an exemplary reel 6 for a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, in order to limit interference between connection rod mechanisms and reel 6 during movement of the vehicle, portions 6 a of reel 6 near the locations of connection rod mechanisms are removed. In some embodiments the reels may not be modified near the connection rod mechanisms.

FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate an exemplary connection rod mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic top view. In the present embodiment, the connection rod mechanism is provided between two reels. The connection rod mechanism may be articulated on the reels via brackets on the reels. One or more sets of connection rod mechanisms may be arranged vertically within a side panel. For example, without limitation, the side panel illustrated by way of example in FIG. 2 comprises two sets of connection rod mechanism. The connection rod mechanism is articulated on the reels via a connection rod bracket 27, which is attached to the reels. In the present embodiment, the connection rod mechanism comprises more than two rhombic or scissor-shaped connection rods 7 a, end brackets 27 and pin shafts 7 b. Washers7care placed between connection rods 7 a, between connection rods 7 a and the end surfaces of pin shafts 7 b, and between connection rods 7 a and end brackets 27. Washers 7 c may be made of various different materials such as, but not limited to, copper, copper alloy, macromolecule polymer material, etc. in order to reduce noise and to reduce abrasion between the elements. Sleeves 7 d are provided between pin shafts 7 b and the holes of connection rods7ato help reduce friction, generally ensuring of the service life of the connection rod mechanism and reducing noise. In some alternate embodiments, the connecting rod mechanism may not comprise washers or sleeves or may employ various different means for reducing noise and friction such as, but not limited to, bearings or lubricants. In the present embodiment, the connection rods 7 a may be made of a sturdy material such as, but not limited to, high-strength aluminum, steel, etc. The design of the connection rod mechanism may enable the connection rod mechanism to have extensibility and compressibility and may provide rigidity.

FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate an exemplary roller device 33 for a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic top view. In the present embodiment, roller device 33 may roll freely inside a guide rail of the side panel. Roller device 33 may be constructed of roller 33 a, roller 33 c, roller bracket 33 b and crank arm 33 f with two rotating shafts. A roller 33 a is mounted at both sides of roller bracket 33 b by screw 33 e. Roller 33 e is mounted at both ends of roller bracket 33 b by shoulder screw 33 d. Diameter of roller 33 a and roller 33 c respectively match with the section size of guide rail 14. Roller device 33 may roll along length direction of guide rail 14. The end of one rotating shaft of crank arm 33 f is connected with roller bracket 33 b, and the other rotating shaft of crank arm 33 f is link point in middle of connection rod mechanism 7. The crank arm 33 f makes roller device 33 swing around the link point in middle of connection rod mechanism 7. Near the middle of roller device 33 roller bracket 33 b connects with a rotating shaft of a crank arm 33 f, and another rotating shaft of crank arm 33 f creates an articulation point for the middle connection rod of a connection rod mechanism in order to connect roller device 33 to an internal panel. In the present embodiment, a roller device 33 is placed at the articulation point in the middle of each connection rod mechanism connected to the internal panel. The movement of roller devices 33 within the guide rail may create a moveable joint on the internal panel. The vibration of crank arm 33 f and the rolling of roller device 33 typically enable the connection rod mechanism to limit the freedom of vertical motion of the internal panel. Crank arm 33 f and rolling of roller device 33 along length direction of guide rail 14, make the connection rod mechanism 7 limit the freedom of motion vertical to the direction of panel with guide rail 14 and internal panel 5. Protrusion to inside vehicle for internal panel 5 can be restricted during stretching, compressing, pitching, rolling, vertical movement or great transverse movement and internal panel 5 can withstand the loading of passenger leaning. The twist and deformation of internal panel 5 are not restricted during stretching, compressing, pitching, rolling, vertical movement or great transverse movement. Meaning that the internal panel 5 cannot move inwards, but it can withstand the loading of passenger leaning. The motion in other directions are not limited. Roller device 33 may also support and reinforce the rigidity of the internal panel and help to restrict the deformation of the internal panel into the center of a gangway.

FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate an exemplary upper bracket 10 of a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic top view. In the present embodiment, upper bracket 10 may be mounted to a railcar to act as a connection device for a side panel. Upper bracket 10 comprises a mounting bracket 10 a and an abnormity sleeve 10 b to reduce friction. A step 10 c on sleeve 10 b can help ensure that the side panel is mounted in the correct position. Some embodiments may be implemented without an abnormity sleeve or without a step on the abnormity sleeve.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an exemplary upper mounting device 19 of a one-piece side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic front view, and FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic top view. In the present embodiment, mounting device 19 is located on the top of a reel to connect the reel to a railcar. A nylon or copper sleeve 19 a is applied inside a hole 19 b in upper mounting device 19, which is used for mounting an upper bracket with a mounting pin 25. Some embodiments may be implemented without a sleeve. In the present embodiment, mounting device 19 rotates around mounting pin 25, mounting device 20 rotates around mounting pin 24, the mounting pin 25 and 24 located on the same axial line, it is realized that reels 6 rotates around mounting pin 25 and 24. Two adjacent vehicles will displace transversely in FIG. 10. Reels 6 will rotate to make panel 5 extend and compress, thus achieve relative yaw between vehicles. It is contemplated that a multiplicity of suitable attachment means may be used to connect the side panel to a railcar in some embodiments.

All the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying abstract and drawings, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods of providing a side panel for connecting vehicles according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. For example, the particular implementation of the panel may vary depending upon the particular type of vehicle used. The panels described in the foregoing were directed to railcar implementations; however, similar techniques are to provide side panels for connecting various different types of vehicles such as, but not limited to, large busses, boats, barges, tractor-trailers, etc. Non-railcar implementations of the present invention are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claim elements and steps herein may have been numbered and/or lettered solely as an aid in readability and understanding. Any such numbering and lettering in itself is not intended to and should not be taken to indicate the ordering of elements and/or steps in the claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: an interior panel being configured to at least cover a portion of a side of a gangway between at least a first passenger car and a second passenger car; reel mechanisms in engagement with said interior panel, said reel mechanisms being operable to curl portions of sides of said interior panel to accommodate a change in distance between the passenger cars; curling devices in engagement with said reel mechanisms and being configured to urge said reel mechanisms to curl sides of said interior panel; at least one connection rod mechanism in engagement with said reel mechanisms and being configured to be operable to support a middle portion of said interior panel; and connection fixing devices being configured to join said reel mechanisms to the passenger cars.
 2. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said reel mechanisms comprise a first reel being positionable in a generally vertical orientation for engagement with the first passenger car, and a second reel being positionable in a generally vertical orientation for engagement with the second passenger car.
 3. The apparatus as recited in claim 2, in which said curling devices comprise a first curling device being joined to said first reel and a first end of said connection rod mechanism, and a second curling device being joined to said second reel and a second end of said connection rod mechanism.
 4. The apparatus as recited in claim 3, in which said curling devices comprise torsion springs.
 5. The apparatus as recited in claim 4, further comprising torsion spring shafts along vertical axis of said reels upon which said torsion springs are disposed.
 6. The apparatus as recited in claim 2, further comprising at least one roller device being in engagement with said connection rod mechanism and said middle portion of said interior panel for supporting said middle portion.
 7. The apparatus as recited in claim 6, in which said roller device comprises a roller, a crank arm having two rotating shafts, and a roller bracket, a first of said rotating shafts being in engagement with said roller bracket, a second of said rotating shafts being in engagement with a midpoint of said connection rod mechanism.
 8. The apparatus as recited in claim 7, further comprising a guide device being joined to said internal panel in which said roller device rolls.
 9. The apparatus as recited in claim 8, in which said guide device comprises a guide rail.
 10. The apparatus as recited in claim 6, further comprising an additional connection rod mechanism in engagement with said reel mechanisms, and an additional roller device.
 11. The apparatus as recited in claim 10, in which each of said connection rod mechanisms comprises at least two scissor-shaped connection rods.
 12. The apparatus as recited in claim 11, in which said midpoint of said connection rod mechanism comprises a link point.
 13. The apparatus as recited in claim 2, in which said connection fixing devices rotatably join said reel mechanisms to the passenger cars.
 14. The apparatus as recited in claim 13, in which said connection fixing devices comprises brackets and a pin forming a hinge.
 15. The apparatus as recited in claim 2, in which a middle portion of said internal panel is rigid and side portions engaging said reels are flexible.
 16. The apparatus as recited in claim 2, in which said reels comprise a sub-circular shape.
 17. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which the passenger cars are railcars.
 18. An apparatus comprising: means for covering a portion of a side of a gangway between at least a first railcar and a second railcar; means for curling portions of sides of said covering means to accommodate a change in distance between the railcars; means for urging said reel mechanisms to curl sides of said covering means; means, in engagement with said curling means, for supporting a middle portion of said covering means; and means for joining said curling means to the railcars.
 19. An apparatus comprising: an interior panel being configured to at least cover a portion of a side of a gangway between at least a first railcar and a second railcar; two reel mechanisms, each joined to a side of said interior panel, said reel mechanisms being operable to curl portions of sides of said interior panel to accommodate a change in distance between the railcars; at least four curling devices in engagement with said reel mechanisms and being configured to urge said reel mechanisms to curl sides of said interior panel; at least two connection rod mechanism in engagement with said reel mechanisms and being configured to be operable to support a middle portion of said interior panel; and top and bottom connection fixing devices being configured to join said reel mechanisms to the railcars.
 20. The apparatus as recited in claim 19, in which a middle portion of said internal panel is rigid and side portions engaging said reels are flexible, in which a first of said reel mechanisms comprises a first reel having a sub-circular shape and being positionable in a generally vertical orientation for engagement with the first railcar, and a second of said reel mechanisms comprises a second reel having a sub-circular shape and being positionable in a generally vertical orientation for engagement with the second railcar, in which each of said curling devices comprise a torsion spring being joined to a one of said reels and to an end of one of said connection rod mechanisms, in which each of said connection rod mechanisms comprises at least two scissor-shaped connection rods, in which said connection fixing devices comprise brackets and a pins forming hinges, the apparatus further comprising torsion spring shafts along vertical axis of said reels upon which said torsion springs are disposed, the apparatus further comprising at least two roller device being in engagement with said connection rod mechanisms and said middle portion of said interior panel for supporting said middle portion in which each of said roller devices comprises a roller, a crank arm having two rotating shafts, and a roller bracket, a first of said rotating shafts being in engagement with said roller bracket, a second of said rotating shafts being in engagement with a middle link point of a one of said connection rod mechanism, the apparatus further comprising at least one guide rail being joined to said internal panel in which said roller devices roll. 